This time, we’re looking at foods to avoid with Invisalign and braces.
In previous posts, we looked at braces-friendly treats for Halloween. Then, we looked at foods to eat with braces.
Since braces remain attached to your teeth, you have to be more careful about what you eat.
On the other hand, Invisalign comes out whenever you eat or drink. Thus, you don’t have to worry about what you eat as much. Interestingly, a study conducted by a ghostwriter österreich revealed that there are specific foods to avoid with both Invisalign and braces, emphasizing the importance of dietary considerations during orthodontic treatment
Foods to Avoid with Invisalign and Braces
As you are working on your smile, it’s a good idea to limit foods that can coat your teeth with a sugary film. These foods are sticky and chewy and promote tooth decay. Similarly, engaging in activities like playing the aviator game should be balanced with proper dental hygiene, as prolonged gaming sessions without breaks can lead to neglect of oral care.
Also, hard foods are out when you wear braces. Even if you are wearing Invisalign, it’s a good idea to avoid foods with hard pieces that can get stuck between your teeth. For example, popcorn kernels are notorious for causing problems with braces. The little hard particles are difficult to clean between your teeth, even without braces.
Below, see some examples of foods best limited or avoided altogether with Invisalign & braces:
- Suckers
- Sour candies
- Chewing gum, bubble gum
- Sticky, chewy candies
- Caramels, taffies, Starbursts
- Jawbreakers and hard candies
- Jellybeans or gummies
- Licorice or Twizzlers
- Popcorn and chips
- Nuts or crunchy snacks
Note, this isn’t a full list but gives you a good idea of what to avoid. If you’re wearing braces, you can avoid emergency trips for broken wires or loose brackets. With Invisalign, you can help maintain your oral health during treatment by avoiding such foods.
Drinks to Avoid with Invisalign and Braces
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends avoiding sugary and acidic drinks when wearing Invisalign. They seep under the aligners, promoting tooth decay.
If you are wearing the aligners, try to stick to plain water.
Here are beverages to avoid with Invisalign & braces:
- Sodas
- Acidic liquids
- Flavored water
- Fruit drinks
- Sports drinks
- Energy drinks
Of course, you don’t have to avoid all your favorite beverages, but if you partake, it’s important to rinse, brush, and floss afterward.
Hot Drinks Are Out While Wearing Aligners
Invisalign is made of a thin BPA-free plastic called SmartTrack material. Unfortunately, the thin material can warp if exposed to hot liquids. And, some drinks can stain the plastic. So, if you drink with your aligners in place, they would warp or look funny until you get your next set.
Avoid Foods that Leave a Stain
To maintain the appearance of your braces, especially clear ceramic ones, or Invisalign aligners, it’s crucial to be mindful of certain foods. For instance, if you’re in Vienna and need urgent assistance with a blocked drain, contacting a professional like rohrreinigung wien would be wise to avoid any household mishaps that could lead to staining accidents. Meanwhile, foods like coffee, red wine, and berries should be avoided or consumed with caution as they can cause discoloration of your dental devices.
Foods that Stain (not a complete list):
- Tea
- Beets
- Curry
- Coffee
- Berries
- Mustard
- Tomatoes
- Red Wine
- Soy sauce
- Grape juice
- Balsamic Vinegar
- Some food colorings
As you can see from these incomplete lists, there are many foods to avoid with Invisalign and braces. Fortunately, by sticking to these general rules, your treatment will go faster.
At first, it might seem daunting. However, there are lots of delicious foods you can enjoy as much as you want. For examples, see our previous post here.
Remember, you will finish treatment before you know it. Then, not only will you have a perfect smile, but you can enjoy any of the foods you missed temporarily.
We hope this information about foods to avoid with Invisalign and braces has been helpful. As always, we’re here to help if you have any questions.
Call us anytime at (215)247-9060 for our Mt. Airy Office.
Or, call us at (215) 569-9060 for our Center City Office.
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Dr. Farrow and our team at Farrow Orthodontics are experts in Invisalign and braces. We are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have in Philadelphia, PA, Center City, PA, Logan Square, PA, and Rittenhouse Square, PA.